30 Perfect Things to do in Vancouver in November 2023: One for Each Day!

There are plenty of things to do in Vancouver in November, especially as most venues and activities are planning for full opening. While Fall is in full swing, November is an in-between stage. The October events are over and the things to do in Vancouver in December have not started.

Whether you are a local or planning a visit to Vancouver, this post will give you your fill of what to do in Vancouver in November. I suspect you will be surprised at all that the city has to offer in what is considered the off-season for tourists and the middle of fall for locals.

Important Dates in November:

• Nov 11th Remembrance Day (Friday)
• Nov 24th Black Friday

Things to do in Vancouver in November

Remembrance Day Ceremonies

2023 Remembrance Day ceremonies occur all over Metro Vancouver as cities and communities come together to honor armed forces members who have died in the line of duty. They typically occur at city cenotaphs.

If you are a visitor to the city, November 11th is a holiday in Canada. Expect holiday hours and some closures (schools and banks etc. Shopping malls and Costco are open) 

Black Friday Shopping

Picked up from our American neighbors, Black Friday shopping is now popular all over the world. Expect plenty of Black Friday November events in Vancouver. Check into online shopping this year, if you want to avoid other people or lineups. Gone are the days when people lined up at stores for hours and now so much shopping is done online. But if you still like to browse in person, there will be plenty of shopping deals, especially at the local malls.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Musical

Discover the magic of Dr. Seuss’ classic holiday tale as it comes to life on stage. Featuring the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas,” The Grinch discovers there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming holiday classic. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the holiday-loving Whos. Celebrate the holidays with the show The New York Times calls “100 times better than any bedtime story!”

Dates: Nov 14 – 18, 2023

Location: The Centre for the Performing Arts, 777 Homer St.

Ballet BC Production HERE

Ballet BC opens the 2023/24 season with HERE, an evening featuring the return of one of the most popular works in the company’s repertoire Enemy in the Figure by legendary creator William Forsythe, a world premiere from Stephen Shropshire, a choreographer new to Ballet BC, and Shahar Binyamini’s epic large ensemble piece BOLERO X.

Dates: Nov 2-4

Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 630 Hamilton Street

Disney on Ice Frozen and Encanto

This November in Vancouver, Disney On Ice invites families to step inside the magical adventures of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen, the #1 Animated feature of all time, and Disney Animation’s Encanto as they come to life like never before. 

This adventure on ice transports fans into two of the most popular Disney films as audiences can sing along to their favourite songs while embracing world-class ice skating, aerial acrobatics, and more.

Dates: November 22, 2023 – November 26, 2023

Location: PNE Pacific Coliseum, 100 N Renfrew Street

Cirque de Soleil: Kooza

KOOZA is an innovative journey viewed through the perspective of The Innocent, an endearing yet naïve clown looking for his place in the world. A mystery item is delivered to The Innocent one day when he is flying his kite. The self-discovery journey of The Innocent, who is miraculously transferred to a bizarre but exotic world, is followed in KOOZA under the watchful eye of an enigmatic trickster with remarkable abilities.

The show is the perfect November event to attend. It is set in an electrifying and exotic visual world full of surprises, thrills, chills, audacity and total involvement.

Dates: Daily (except Mondays)

Location: Concord Pacific Place

Shop on Robson Street

In its prime area roughly between Burrard and Jervis Street, Robson Street has every store that you could desire for your fashion wants and holiday shopping. All the major national and international chain stores are located here, from more casual and athletic wear companies such as to well-known clothing retailers. Popular footwear retailers, lingerie and beauty products are all here. You can also pick up some popular Vancouver souvenirs and things you can only get in Canada at souvenir shops Grand Maple Gift and Canadian Crafts on Robson.

Ancient Trees of Vancouver Walking Tour

This is one of the newest things to do in Vancouver in November. It is Vancouver’s only ancient big tree tour. You will be guided by well-known big tree seeker, Colin Spratt, through Vancouver’s last ancient forest in Stanley Park. Visit Canada’s largest maple tree, 1000-year-old cedars, and massive firs. Learn the history of the Coast Salish people who called the park home since time immemorial.

Tickets: Online

Dates: Daily in November

McArthur Glen Outlet

Feel the magic of the holiday season and be part of the festivities at their annual tree-lighting event, where a very special guest straight from the North Pole will be joining on November 16! Enjoy live entertainment, festive treats, and stylish fun for the whole family through November 18.

Dates: Nov 16-18 with displays up through the holidays

Location: 1000-7899 Templeton Station Rd, Richmond

Fly Over Canada Legendary Iceland

Take off on an exhilarating flying ride that lets you soar, dive and dip through incredible Icelandic landscapes. From towering peaks and stunning fjords to untouched tundra and wildflower meadows, join us on an otherworldly journey aboard Legendary Iceland — only at FlyOver Canada for a limited time.

If you have never seen Fly Over Canada, then you are going to want to take a ride on that as well! During the Ultimate Flying Ride, you will see numerous cities and vistas across the country.

Tickets: Online

Dates: Now until Dec 14th

Location: 201 – 999 Canada Place Vancouver, BC

Important Notes: The queue is partially exposed to the elements. Ensure you wear proper attire. It is recommended to buy tickets online in advance. For those looking for more Holiday Fly Over events, Soar with Santa starts in December this year!

Related: While at Coal Harbour, check out these popular Vancouver waterfront restaurants!

Christmas Glow in Langley

It is the largest and brightest holiday event of the season, and this year, Glow Langley is returning this November. 2023 features a Christmas Carnival with heated and covered spaces, free carnival-themed games, towering carnival-themed lights, a craft corner in a “tent of makers”, along with the much-loved magical holiday landscapes, all under the thrill of more than a million lights that continue to impress guests.

There will also be a Merry Makers Market, with more than twenty local vendors, a new interactive kids scavenger hunt, live holiday performances, a holiday train ride, pictures with Santa, and interactive play zones.

To decrease crowding, entry to the event is staggered, and time slots are provided to guests so that everyone can enjoy the event more comfortably.

Dates: November 23 – December 30/2023

Tickets: Early Bird Tickets go on sale September 25th

Prices: Adult $19.99 Child (4-12) $14.99 Senior (65+) $14.99 Family ( 2 Adults + 3 Child/Senior) $69.99

Parking: FREE

Location: 6690 216th St, Langley

Vancouver Christmas Market

The famous Vancouver Christmas Market starts in November and features a German-inspired Christmas Market. For those who like a jump on the holiday season, it creates the perfect atmosphere to get into the holiday spirit. Experience a selection of traditional food and beverages, and browse vendors offering authentic wood carvings and toys, knitted goods, nutcrackers, pottery, and other unique gifts. This is a popular place to get Vancouver souvenirs.

Dates: Nov 16th – Dec 24th 2023

Location: Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Place Vancouver

Prices: Tickets start at $15.99 based on the type of ticket you purchase. Kids 6 and under are free. 

Tickets: Pre Sale Tickets are available online. Tickets can also be purchased on arrival subject to availability.

Catch up on Sports this November in Vancouver

Fall is in the air in Vancouver and professional sports teams are back in action. Catch a BC Lions game at BC Place or watch the Vancouver Canucks face off at Rogers Arena.

November Events Vancouver: Gastown Food Tour

The Legendary Gastown Food tour takes you through the cobbled stone streets of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood and is a perfect fall activity in Vancouver Enjoy local craft beer, Japanese Kar-age style chicken, freshly made Sicilian Tortellini with local wine, battered fish with hand-cut fries, tasty Carolina-style pulled pork BBQ sandwiches, organic smooth soft ice cream, creamy awarding-winning cheesecake, and delicious hand-made chocolates!

On this 2.5-hour walking food tour, professional improv comedy actors full of passion for the city and its food will share fascinating and funny little-known stories about Vancouver and its “Wild West” history that dates back 150 years. Learn about Gassy Jack, Gastown’s notorious founder, and the stories that him famous and put Vancouver on the map.

Tickets: Online here

Dates: Offered daily.

Location: Departs from Waterfront Station 601 W Cordova St

Vancouver Tree Lighting

Back for another sparkling year, the in-person kick-off party for the city’s official Christmas tree––a shimmering, 75-feet-tall cone of 100,000 lights and fake foliage that’s just crying out for selfies––is a family-friendly live event that’s well worth checking out. Sprinkled with festive cheer and toe-tapping live music (as well as gratis hot cocoa) Santa will also be on hand to offer his official seal of approval. And if you miss the big launch, don’t forget to beeline this way sometime over the holidays to enjoy the twinkling spectacle.

Date: Dec 1st 2023

Location: Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza

Lights at Lafarge Lake

Lights at Lafarge Lake is one of the largest free light displays in Metro Vancouver, featuring more than 100,000 twinkling lights. This year’s Lights at Lafarge Kick-off event will take place on Friday, Nov 24th, 2023 from 5 – 8 p.m. at Town Centre Park, featuring food vendors, arts activities, and live entertainment. If you are wondering what to do in Vancouver in November and are looking for an outdoor activity, this is one you should add to your list. 

Dates: Nightly from Nov 24th

Location: Lafarge Lake at Town Centre Park, 1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam.

Surrey Tree Lighting

Equally as popular as the Vancouver tree lighting, the Surrey tree lighting is one of those holiday events that those living in Metro Vancouver should not miss. Every year, the City invites residents to watch Mayor and Council “flip the switch” to light the City’s 60ft Christmas Tree. Entering its 13th year in 2023 the festival has been extended to two days in 2023. This year, the festival will provide two days of free entertainment, children’s activities, food trucks, rides, and photos with Santa.

Date: November 25th and 26th

Location: Surrey Civic Plaza – 13450 104 Ave, Surrey

Lights on the Lake at Harrison Hot Springs

While this event gained a ton of online press for being mis-marketed as a Whoville, it is a beautiful display of lights in Harrison on Harrison Lake. Whether you visit for the day or make it a weekend getaway from Vancouver, it is a great outdoor event that is very popular each holiday season

Dates: late November until early Jan

Read More: things to do in Harrison Hot Springs

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge

 Named one of the most spectacular holiday lights displays in the world, Canyon Lights is set to dazzle and amaze again for 2023, high above the forest floor. This is one of the best Christmas lights in Vancouver and a unique experience all in one! The suspension bridge, rainforest, and Capilano River are ablaze with lights, Treetops Adventure (the eight tallest Christmas trees in the world) is lit from top to bottom, the “Arc de Lumina” light tunnel mesmerizes on Cliffwalk, while the Snowy Owl Prowl scavenger hunt entertains the whole family.

A tradition for many Vancouver families, Canyon Lights looks forward to welcoming back guests. While normally one of the things to do in Vancouver in December, Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge will again be open to visitors on November 17th 2023.

Dates: November 17, 2023 – January 21, 2024

Tickets: ONLINE HERE

Location: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver

Important Notes: Strollers are not allowed. Dress for the outdoors.

Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Museum

Thousands of guests will be transported to a winter wonderland at the Burnaby Village Museum during Heritage Christmas, one of the largest annual holiday celebrations in Metro Vancouver. Twinkling lights will adorn the vintage storefronts at Burnaby Village Museum, while holiday carolers
and characters like Buddy the Elf wander the streets during Heritage Christmas. The result is a magical holiday experience unlike any other in Metro Vancouver and it’s all presented free of charge by the
City of Burnaby.

Dates for 2023: TBD

Location: 6501 Deer Lake, Burnaby BC

Grouse Mountain Peak of Vancouver

Feel the enchantment and radiance of twinkling lights, the calm echo of the snow, and the joy of witnessing real reindeer. Experience the tranquil beauty of skating on our 8,000 square foot mountaintop Ice Skating Pond, surrounded by snow-topped trees.

Grouse Mountain offers more than just skiing. This Vancouver winter activity has skating, light walks, snowshoeing, and more. It is worth taking the tram up the mountain.

Dates: TBD for 2023

Get your admission passes here.

Bear Creek Park Lights

Bear Creek Park Lights offers a safe, fun family-friendly evening event. Enjoy the trails of the park gardens and be dazzled by a series of illuminated natural landscapes and whimsical light displays.

Dates: November 3 – 17, 2023 from 4:30 – 9:00 pm (except November 11th)

Location: Bear Creek Park, 13750 – 88 Avenue, Surrey

Squamish at Dusk

Squamish at Dusk is a brand new winter light art experience where you can journey through captivating light art installations weaving tales and transporting you to a winter wonderland. Experience a fusion of light, art, and narrative as installations transform Squamish’s Rose Park into a nighttime wonderland.

Dates: November 23 – December 10 2023 (Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights) 4pm – 10pm

Location: Rose Park, 38550 Loggers Ln, Squamish, BC

Stanley Park Holiday Train 

Welcoming over 200,000 visitors annually, the Stanley Park Railway has been popular with locals and tourists alike. Bright Nights and Stanley Park Holiday train is unfortunately canceled for 2023.

In years past, the 2 km track would wind through the forest over ground cleared by Typhoon Freda, the most devastating storm in Vancouver history which blew through in 1962.  

Passengers could get a close-up look at a vintage engine and a quick photo before boarding for the 15-minute ride. 

The jewel of the Stanley Park Railway’s collection of old locomotives is a locally-built replica of Canadian Pacific Railway Engine #374, famous for pulling Canada’s first transcontinental passenger train into Vancouver in the late 1880s.  

Stanley Park Railway is adjacent to other popular destinations such as Lumberman’s Arch, Malkin Bowl, and the Rose Garden. If you happen to be reading this early in the season, Stanley Park is the perfect place to see fall colors.

Location: Stanley Park

Dates: Nov 30th 2023 – Jan 1st 2024

Concerts in Vancouver in November

• Shania Twain (Nov 14th – Rogers Arena)
• Jeremy Zucker (Nov 24th – Vogue Theatre)

Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs in November in Vancouver

Riley Park Farmers Market – Saturdays 10am to 2pm Location: Takes place at Riley Park and the parking lot of Nat Bailey Stadium 4601 Ontario Street, Vancouver

Vancouver Flea Market (Saturdays and Sundays) 9am to 5pm Location: 703 Terminal Admission: $1.50

Cloverdale Flea Market (Sundays) Location: Cloverdale Fair Grounds 6050 176th St Surrey, Admission $1.50

Hastings Park Winter Market (Sundays 10am to 2pm) Location: PNE fairgrounds

Surrey Christmas Tree Lighting Holiday Fair Nov 25/26 Location: Surrey Civic Plaza 13450 104th Ave, Surrey

German Christmas Market (Daily Nov 16th – Dec 24th 2023) Location: Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Place Vancouver

Portobello West Roundhouse Holiday Market (Nov 25th – 26th 2023) Location: Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre, 181 Roundhouse Mews Vancouver

Is November a Good Time to Visit Vancouver?

November is considered the offseason to visit much of British Columbia. Generally, the local ski hills are not open and Whistler Blackcomb traditionally opens in line with American Thanksgiving. The summer months are peak season to visit Vancouver, so if you want to visit without crowds, November is a good time to come into the city.

It rains 20 out of 30 days of the month, so make sure you plan for at least a chance of rain. Some of the fall foliage is still on display in November.

Read More: 99 things to do in British Columbia

Does it snow in Vancouver in November?

As you will read below, snow is a rare sight in Vancouver and is usually only seen on higher elevations. With that being said, flakes do fall in the city on occasion. If you are looking for a snowy city, November in Vancouver is not the right choice.

Weather in Vancouver in November

Vancouver has a moderate climate for most of the year. It does not get the cold snowy weather that you will find in much of the rest of Canada, but it is important to plan for the elements just in case. There is a likely chance of a dusting of snow in higher elevations in Metro Vancouver in November, and you are likely to see fresh snow on the mountains around the city.

Snow on the mountains likely means rain in the city. When planning a trip to Vancouver in November, ensure you are prepped for rain with a decent waterproof jacket and appropriate footwear. You will also want layers.

Get more information on Vancouver weather in November with tips on what to pack, temperatures to expect, and how likely you are to see wet weather or sunshine.

November in Vancouver: What to Pack

As mentioned above, it does not get extremely cold, but expect wet and cool weather. You will want to ensure you have warm, waterproof clothing including sweaters, hoodies, and a heavier jacket. Bring closed-toed shoes and some type of waterproof footwear. You will probably want a light pair of gloves and a hat. If you get cold easily like I do, order a pair of these wrist warmers for your trip. I wear them from fall until spring! They have been the best thing I have found to keep the chill out of my hands! Also you do not have a packable umbrella, I suggest you buy one.

Things to do in Vancouver by Month

Things to do in Vancouver in January

Things to do in Vancouver in February

Things to do in Vancouver in March

Things to do in Vancouver in April

Things to do in Vancouver in May

Things to do in Vancouver in September

Things to do in Vancouver in October

Things to do in December in Vancouver

Things to do in Vancouver at Christmas

Image Credits: Lindsay Elliot / Tourism Vancouver (TOP) and VanDusen Gardens (BOTTOM)

Header Image Credit: Tourism Vancouver / Capilano Suspension Bridge Park